Library Technology Guides

The cost of an ILL module ranges from a low of $4,000 to a high of $30,000 depending on the vendor and the size of the system on which it is being mounted. Occasionally, we are asked why an interlibrary loan (ILL) module should be included in an RFP for an integrated library system. We normally recommend one because an ILL module can both improve service to patrons and reduce costs. Specifically, an ILL module provides an organization with these benefits:

1. Searches for materials can be made against local holdings, preferred lending partners' holdings, or against any Z39.50 database regardless of the hardware and software of the target systems.
2. Increased automation of lending and borrowing reduces the time to fill requests to the most cost-effective fulfillment option, and increases efficiency.
3. At the option of a library, patrons can initiate their own requests, track the status of requests, and receive printed notifications or e-mail when the items are available.
4. Library staff can quickly and easily view, print, or export statistical data about the ILL activity at their library.

Several ILL studies have documented that labor is the largest single cost element in the high cost of borrowing and lending-typically 70 percent or more. The labor component includes both staff and managerial time and costs. Merely automating the ILL function reduces costs somewhat. However, by letting patrons do more for themselves, costs can be substantially reduced.